Choosing the Right Tires for EVs

When a customer with a Kia EV comes in for tires, it’s important to help them understand the types of tires available for their EV. A good understanding of rolling resistance and noise generation can help your customer navigate their purchase. It will also help you maintain Fixed Right the First Time scores if someone comes in with range or noise issues after purchasing general use tires for their EV.

Rolling Resistance

EVs can benefit from low rolling resistance tires (LRR). Rolling resistance is the amount of energy needed to move a tire over a road surface. Different surfaces have different rolling force requirements. But tires also have different characteristics that change how they roll over the road. EVs use LRR tires which can increase range by reducing energy loss from rolling resistance.

A tire’s rolling resistance is caused by many factors, including tread compound, tread design, tire pressure, tire load, and internal tire structural design. LRR tires are typically designed to have stiffer sidewalls and treads to reduce road contact area, while still retaining the necessary grip. These features can help support the higher weight of EVs.

Noise Generation

EVs (and Plug-In Hybrids in EV Mode) do not have typical engine sounds to mask tire noise as the vehicle drives over a road surface. In the absence of typical engine sounds, EVs can benefit from low-noise tires. The Continental Cross Contact tire on an EV6 uses a noise-deadening foam strip installed inside the tire. This type of tire also needs special handling when making repairs. See Pit Stop PS727 for information on repairing these tires.

While most tires look pretty much the same on the outside, there really are big differences on the inside. Because these differences sometimes mean higher costs, it’s important to help the customer understand why they may need to spend a little more to maintain a high level of satisfaction with their vehicle.

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